In a proactive move to combat transboundary haze pollution, Singapore plans to collaborate with ASEAN member states to establish a regional coordinating centre during its 2027 ASEAN chairmanship. This initiative aims to address the recurring haze issues caused by forest fires and land burning, an effort underscored by Singapore’s Minister for Sustainability and the Environment, Grace Fu, in a recent Parliament session on November 3.
The proposed ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Transboundary Haze Pollution Control is expected to be based in Indonesia. Its establishment will facilitate regional cooperation, focusing on preventing forest fires, managing land burning, and tackling the root causes of the haze. This centre is part of broader efforts to manage cross-border air pollution, requiring ratification from at least six ASEAN member states. Singapore intends to complete its ratification soon and will urge other countries to do the same. Vietnam has already taken a step forward, having submitted its approval by mid-2026.
The centre is set to play a critical role in sharing firefighting technology, expertise, and resources among ASEAN countries. It will also coordinate emergency assistance during significant forest and land fire incidents. This initiative follows a period of unhealthy air quality in Singapore caused by fires in Indonesia between September and October 2026, where pollution levels reached a very unhealthy index level of 230.
During this period, Singapore had offered civilian assistance to Indonesia, including firefighting support and cloud seeding operations. However, Indonesia declined the help, stating it could manage the situation independently. Grace Fu expressed respect for Indonesia’s decision while emphasizing the necessity for stronger regional collaboration to prevent future incidents.
In addition to these diplomatic efforts, Singapore is taking legal action against companies suspected of contributing to transboundary haze. The government has issued legal notices to 10 Singapore-registered companies and 10 Indonesian companies under the Transboundary Haze Pollution Act. Changes to strengthen haze-related legislation are also underway, aiming to improve accountability for illegal land and forest burning.
